olivemagazine
type: channel
date: 2026-03-17T14:46:49.000Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: Where to visit in May – tick off a food festival, chic city break or scenic blowout trip
items: Best collagen supplements UK, tried and tested by experts 2026
items: 10 European gourmet escapes to catch spring produce at its peak
items: Best restaurants in Porto, Portugal: where locals eat and drink
items: 28 best pizza places in London
items: Best London hotels for a stay in the heart of the city's action
items: Best steak restaurants in London
items: This pretty print is taking over our kitchens this spring – here is what you need to buy
items: 10 foraging dos and don’ts for safe and edible treasures
items: 10 UK hotels with beautiful gardens to book this spring
items: Vagus nervous? The expert lowdown on vagus nerve stimulation and how to make it work for you
items: Best new restaurants in London to visit in 2026
items: Best restaurants in Hackney: where locals eat and drink
items: My unexpected journey through Norway's fjords – saunas, seafood and striking views
items: Georgie Mullen’s elegant vegetarian spring menu
items: Spring show-off dishes for the long weekend
items: Why I love Western Cape, South Africa's diverse coastal province
items: Where to visit in April: from spring gardens in the UK to US food festivals
items: Wind down into the perfect slow Sunday with iHerb’s best wellness essentials
items: Maunika Gowardhan's joyous Keralan dishes
items: West Hampstead restaurants: a local shares her favourite spots
items: 20 London hotel bars to visit
items: Why every oenophile should discover Australia’s remote wine paradise
items: Ljubljana's best restaurants: where to eat and drink in Slovenia's capital
items: Best cocktail bars in London

Where to visit in May – tick off a food festival, chic city break or scenic blowout trip
type: item
date: 2026-03-17T14:46:49.000Z
creator: Alex Crossley
subject: Travel
subject: Great Getaways
description: From tropical island hopping to coastal Croatian festivals and lush green UK road trips, here's our pick of where to travel this month
encoded: Want some ideas on where to go on holiday in May? We’ve curated our pick of destinations for a food lover’s break as spring eases into the start of summer, with something for everyone. From UK staycations to European city breaks and long-haul adventures, there's plenty to discover this month. This is just a small selection of our UK, European and global travel guides – check out our travel hub for much more. The UK at it’s best – Shropshire A lush expanse of fertile farmland, rolling hills and historic market towns, Shropshire is both a scenic and gastronomic gem, where good food abounds thanks to the energetic efforts of local farmers, artisan makers and chefs. Ludlow is arguably the region's foodiest town – stop at Vaughan's for sandwiches, The Mousetrap for artisan cheese and The Fish House for its seafood bar. Find fine dining at Mortimer's, serving broadly modern British dishes of, say, salmon with baby beets and horseradish crème fraîche, or beef with confit onion mash, shallots and baby leeks. In May, the Ludlow Spring Festival is a celebration of craft beer and food against the dramatic backdrop of Ludlow Castle. There is plenty to explore in Shropshire beyond Ludlow too. In Shrewsbury, head upstairs at The Walrus for classy cocktails and gourmet snacks, or choose between four different patty options for a brilliant burger from The Beefy Boys. Base yourself at The Bear Inn in Hodnet, a 16th-century former coaching inn which is now a spruce country pub of real charisma. Its 12 bedrooms were individually styled by interiors ace, Octavia Dickinson, while chef Joe Andrews’ food is creating a similar wow factor. Expect dishes such as pork wellington with sage, apple, carrot and a cider jus, or ox cheek, mash, quince, roscoff onions and a corn crumb. The kitchen draws on vegetables grown in nearby Hodnet Hall’s 200-year-old walled garden. The UK bolthole – Bull, Burford Bull in Burford is a 16th-century coaching inn that combines modern, stylish comforts with hist…

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Best collagen supplements UK, tried and tested by experts 2026
type: item
date: 2026-03-16T14:43:35.000Z
creator: Imogen Hope
subject: Reviews
subject: Wellbeing
description: Our health experts have tried and tested marine, vegan and bovine collagen in the form of gels and powders to help you find the best option
encoded: Collagen is a natural protein found in the body and plays a vital role in the health of skin, bones, muscles and connective tissue. Making sure your diet provides enough protein is key to supplying the amino acids your body needs to produce collagen. Adding a collagen supplement may also support skin health and elasticity, and could offer benefits for joint comfort and maintaining bone strength. As we get older, our bodies naturally produce less collagen, which is why some people turn to supplements. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know which type is best, and whether they’re worth the cost. Sponsored by iHerb Upgrade your supplement routine with 15% off collagen at iHerb Collagen remains a popular supplement for those looking to support healthy joints and glowing skin as part of their daily routine. iHerb makes it easy to explore options, with a wide selection of collagen supplements from trusted wellness brands. Whether it’s powders to stir into drinks, convenient capsules or easy to carry sachets, there’s something to suit all routines and preferences. Among the bestsellers are California Gold Nutrition Collagen, Sport Research Collagen, California Gold Collagen Sachets and Vital Proteins Collagen, which are all available at iHerb. For a limited time, shoppers can save on collagen supplements across the range. Use code UKCOL15 at checkout to enjoy 15% off collagen supplements at iHerb today. Terms & Conditions: Offer valid in the UK only. Promotion runs until 31 March 2026 at 10am. Discount applies to collagen supplements only and must be applied using code UKCOL15 at checkout. Cannot be combined with other promotions unless stated. We’ve tested collagen supplements for flavour and ingredient quality, so you can make an informed choice. Keep reading for our favourite picks of the best marine, vegan and bovine collagen supplements. Looking for more healthy inspiration? Read our guides to the 10 foods to fight seasonal allergies and what is …

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10 European gourmet escapes to catch spring produce at its peak
type: item
date: 2026-03-16T10:13:16.000Z
creator: Gurdeep Loyal
subject: Travel
description: From wild garlic in the UK to sour cherries in Hungary, seasonal produce is bountiful across Europe in spring
encoded: From the first vivid green shoots of wild garlic in the British countryside, to fleeting lagoon delicacies in Venice and the tart cherries starting to ripen across central Europe, spring brings a wave of ingredients for which chefs wait all year. These 10 gourmet escapes are centred around the continent’s most exciting spring produce and the places where it tastes best. For more spring travel inspiration, check out our guides of where to go in April and the best spring holiday destinations around the world. Bristol, UK: wild garlic From March to May, damp and shady woodlands, country lanes and city streets all over the UK are flushed with verdant wild garlic, also known as ramsons. Its long, glossy leaves and fragrant flowers have a fresh garlicky flavour that sings of British springtime. Check out our 10 foraging do's and don'ts to safely secure your haul. Thanks to its many riverbanks and streams, Bristol and the West Country are especially abundant in the woodland herb – particularly spots like Leigh Woods, Ashton Court and the Avon Gorge, where foragers gather annually. The menu at Root – a contemporary, plant-led sharing plates restaurant on Bristol’s historic Wapping Wharf – showcases wild garlic season each year. It's foraged in the local area daily and served on the menu later the same day, cooked in dishes like cannellini beans, wild garlic, smoked butter and pangrattato. Marmo restaurant and wine shop in central Bristol is similarly founded on a seasonal and locally sourced ethos – there, the aim is to try to get wild garlic into as many dishes as possible over the foraging season. Try the hand-rolled butter and wild garlic strozzapreti, or fried wild garlic frittelle. See our expert local's guide to the best restaurants in Bristol for more. Valls, Spain: calçots The annual calçotada festivities in Spain originate in the town of Valls, in the province of Tarragona – just over an hour by train from Barcelona – and celebrate the harvest of calçots, the green…

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Best restaurants in Porto, Portugal: where locals eat and drink
type: item
date: 2026-03-16T09:23:57.000Z
creator: Alex Crossley
subject: Europe
subject: Travel
subject: Local city guides
description: Discover our pick of where to eat and drink in Portugal's elegant second city, including local hotspots, chef favourites and new openings, plus a spotlight on a foodie neighbourhood
encoded: Looking for restaurants in Porto? Want to know where to eat in Portugal's northern city? Our local and in house experts share their insider tips for the best restaurants in Porto, along with where to find the best pastéis de nata (custard tarts), sandes de pernil (pork sarnies) and port houses. For more Portuguese travel inspiration, discover 10 things we love about the food from the Algarve and more of the best Portugal food trips. Next, check out our city guides to Málaga, Prague and Ljubljana. Our pick of Porto's best restaurants, cafés and bars Manteigaria – for custard tarts Fans of Lisbon’s cult custard tart shop, Manteigaria, will be pleased to know that Porto has its own branch now. Watch chefs work with spirals of butter and pastry (the kitchen walls are made entirely from glass), transforming them into crisp wheels that are then filled with cinnamon-spiked custard. Stand at the counter and down an espresso, or head to the adjoining minimalistic canteen to savour your tart with a glass of port. Pedro dos Frangos – for piri-piri chicken This long-running Porto favourite has been specialising in charcoal-roasted chicken since the 1960s. Whole birds are slowly spit-roasted over glowing coals until the skin turns burnished and crisp, then chopped into juicy portions and brushed with a punchy piri-piri sauce that delivers a gentle chilli kick. Order a whole chicken to share and it arrives piled onto a large platter with a generous heap of skinny fries and a simple lettuce and tomato salad to balance the richness. The dining room feels pleasingly old-school – wood panelling, tiled floors and tables packed with locals and families. Best of all, the value is exceptional: when we went, a whole chicken with fries and salad plus a bottle of vinho verde came in at around €27. pedrodosfrangos.pt A Casa Guedes – for sandes de pernil (Portuguese pork sandwiches) Queue alongside locals for this traditional tavern, if only for the crunchy bread rolls stuffed with juicy roas…

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28 best pizza places in London
type: item
date: 2026-03-16T09:00:09.000Z
creator: Helen Salter
subject: Guides
subject: London
subject: Restaurants
subject: London area guides
subject: Pizza
description: Looking for the best spots to eat pizza in the capital? We've rounded up our top places, whether you’re after a New York-style slice or an artisanal sourdough base
encoded: Looking for the best pizza in London? Here's our guide to the best pizza places in London and the best takeaway pizza. Whether you want a sourdough pizza base or a traditional Neapolitan pizza, we’ve found the best pizza restaurants in London. From pizza in Brixton to pizza in North London, check out our favourite pizza places. If you fancy making your own pizza, check out our best ever pizza recipes here, or read the lowdown on pizza styles and where to find them. Check out more of our London food guides, including the best restaurants in Kings Cross, best restaurants in Chelsea, best restaurants in Brixton and best restaurants in Paddington. Also see our pick of the best Italian restaurants in London for more pizza and other regional dishes. Best for crispy 18-inch pizzas: Spring Street Pizza Tucked beneath the arches off Southwark Bridge Road, Spring Street Pizza is the latest project from Michelin-starred chef Tom Kemble. Drawing on over 15 years’ experience at the helm of acclaimed restaurants, Kemble brings a refined yet relaxed approach to this pizzeria, merging the bold character of New York pizza joints with a polished London aesthetic. Which pizza to order at Spring Street Pizza? Impressive 18-inch New York-style pizzas are available whole or as half-and-half, crafted with premium ingredients for maximum flavour. The dough is made in-house and undergoes a 48–72 hour fermentation, resulting in a crust that is light, crisp and perfect for dipping into house sauces such as green goddess and confit garlic aioli. The menu caters for traditionalists with classic marinara and margherita options, while those seeking something more adventurous might opt for the New Yorker, topped with San Marzano tomato, pepperoni from rebel charcuterie, Parmigiano Reggiano, hot honey and basil. What else is there to eat and drink? Try the fried breadcrumb mozzarella sticks finished with 22-month parmesan, or round off your meal with smooth vanilla soft-serve, sour cherry and pista…

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Best London hotels for a stay in the heart of the city's action
type: item
date: 2026-03-13T13:00:58.000Z
subject: Travel
subject: Travel london
subject: UK
subject: Hotel guides
description: Lounge in a freestanding bath tub, take your pick from a pillow menu and tuck into Moroccan eggs with labneh at London’s best hotels
encoded: Looking for the best hotels in London? Want to know where to stay in central London? Our guide to London’s best boutique hotels… For more hotel inspiration, discover the best UK spa hotels for food lovers, the most romantic hotels in the UK and the best UK country house hotels. Check out some of our London food guides, including the best restaurants in Fitzrovia, best restaurants in Battersea and best restaurants in Chelsea. Four Seasons Hotel Tower Bridge – for an impressive location Doubles from £562, check availability at fourseasons.com or booking.com On the banks of the Thames, Four Seasons Tower Bridge is as rich and colourful as its historic location. The sweeping beaux-arts building at 10 Trinity Square opened in 1922 as home to the Port of London Authority, and the dramatic architectural legacy of this former centre of trade is felt the moment you step into its marble lobby. At its heart is the Rotunda Bar, topped with a striking glass dome that echoes St Paul's Cathedral. Despite the rich heritage, the interior is thoroughly modern – elegant contemporary furnishings, marble bathrooms and warm wall panelling. Rooms are spacious, cocooned and built for comfort and convenience: we loved that the stereo system extended into the bathroom too. There's a steak restaurant, Cooper's Cut, but we dined at Mei Ume, the contemporary Chinese and Japanese restaurant. The big, bold menu balances crowd-pleasers – whole peking duck, spring rolls, egg fried rice – with more ambitious dishes like slow-cooked Australian abalone, hot stone wagyu beef and roasted black cod, plus an extensive sushi menu spanning futomaki, uramaki, temaki, nigiri and sashimi. A playful dessert of Mei Miao, a yuzu chocolate cat filled with banana sponge and miso mousse, feels perfectly at home in the ornate, high-ceilinged dining room. Breakfast is served in-room or at Rotunda – porridge with treacle and salted butter, a York ham and Neal's Yard Dairy cheddar omelette, bubble and squeak with black …

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Best steak restaurants in London
type: item
date: 2026-03-12T13:04:49.000Z
creator: Keith Kendrick
subject: London
subject: Restaurants
subject: London area guides
description: Want to know where to go for the best sirloin, the juiciest ribeye and top quality wagyu? Read on for our picks of the best steak restaurants in London.
encoded: Want to know where to go for the best sirloin, the juiciest ribeye and top quality wagyu? Read on for our picks of the best steak restaurants in London. From old-school steakhouses to Argentinian classics and modern Japanese grilling, foodies are spoilt for choice with options for the next meat-feast. For more like this, check out our reviews of the best brunch in London, the best outdoor restaurants in London or the best London pubs for food lovers. Best places to eat steak in London Cooper's Cut at Four Seasons Hotel Tower Bridge Set inside the grand former Port of London Authority building, Cooper’s Cut takes its name from Sir Edwin Cooper, the British architect who designed the building in 1922. His work combined scale with detail and the restaurant follows his inspiration: majestic surroundings and cooking that is impressively precise. The centrepiece is Australian executive chef Luke Armstrong’s pride and joy: Japanese hokkaido A4 wagyu fillet. The steak arrives with a golden crust and a deeply succulent interior that all but dissolves as you eat. A quenelle of Kristal caviar and a Pomerol sauce push the classic surf and turf idea somewhere more polished. The wagyu is the star of a succinct, refined lunch that works as a guided tour of what the restaurant does best. We began with an amuse-bouche of Belted Galloway beef tartare and smoked scallop, followed by heritage beetroot with dijon mustard, crème fraîche and merlot vinegar: a bright plate that set the tone. Next came chargrilled Scottish langoustines with saffron and citrus beurre blanc, sweet and lightly smoky from the grill. Dessert was a neat finish: granny smith apple tarte tatin with crème fraîche ice cream. There are plenty of other steaks on the main menu – Angus côte de boeuf and blue grey chateaubriand from the Lake District among them – but the wagyu is the dish that made our eyelashes flutter. cooperscutlondon.com instagram.com/cooperscut MR PORTER, Park Lane Bone-in fillet isn’t a cut you see …

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This pretty print is taking over our kitchens this spring – here is what you need to buy
type: item
date: 2026-03-12T12:44:32.000Z
creator: Laura Forsyth
subject: Reviews
description: The dainty checks of a gingham print are a timeless classic – and it is making a return to our kitchen shelves this season
encoded: Bringing a fresh, spring-ready feel to everyday cooking and dining, pastel-hued gingham is popping up everywhere. From checkerboard to patterned table linens and kitchen storage, this cheerful trend taps into nostalgia while still feeling modern. We’re channelling the aesthetics of vintage picnic blankets, retro diners and sunlit kitchens filled with candy-coloured tableware. Whether you're hosting brunch with friends or simply refreshing your kitchen accessories for the new season, here are some of our favourite pieces for embracing the gingham trend in your home. Jump to: Why is gingham kitchenware trending? How do you style gingham kitchenware? Is gingham suitable for modern kitchens? What are the easiest ways to add in pastel kitchenware? Anthropologie handpainted plaid stoneware dinner plate Available from Anthropologie (£22) Anthropologie is known for colourful tableware and this handpainted plaid plate fits perfectly into the pastel kitchenware trend. Made from durable stoneware, the plate features a softly brushed plaid pattern that feels relaxed rather than overly uniform, giving it that slightly handmade look that works beautifully for casual dining. The pastel colour palette makes it a lovely choice for spring tablescaping – perfect for serving pastries at brunch, a slice of cake in the afternoon or a colourful salad at lunch. It also pairs well with plain white crockery if you prefer a more understated setting. Available from: Anthropologie (£22) Rockett St George checkerboard storage tins Available from Next (£60) If you love a kitchen that feels full of personality, these checkerboard storage tins from Rockett St George are a fun way to introduce the trend. The graphic check pattern taps into the retro aesthetic that’s currently everywhere in interiors, and the pink and orange colourway gives the classic print a modern twist. The set includes three tins in different sizes, making them ideal for storing tea, coffee, sugar or baking ingredients. They loo…

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10 foraging dos and don’ts for safe and edible treasures
type: item
date: 2026-03-12T11:41:11.000Z
creator: Barney Desmazery
subject: Guides
subject: How to
subject: Wild garlic
description: Brush up on your knowledge of urban foraging before you venture this spring with expert Barney Desmazery's practical checklist
encoded: With spring's arrival, nature’s larder begins to bloom with edible plant treasures, which often grow wild in the churchyards, parks and towpaths that wind through our cities. Urban foraging offers the chance to connect with wild food, discover new flavours and enjoy the outdoors. However, it’s vital to approach foraging with care, respect and responsibility. By following these dos and don’ts, you can enjoy your finds while protecting yourself and ensuring your foraging is safe, legal and sustainable. Discover more re-energising activities in our 30 easy ways to bring the joy this spring campaign, including expert health tips, morning rituals and seasonal dinners. For recipe inspiration, check out our best wild garlic recipes, mushroom recipes or elderflower recipes. Foraging dos Do your research before you start Before heading out, research what you can and cannot forage thoroughly. Use trusted books or reputable websites to help you identify what is available and, even then, never eat anything you’re not totally sure of. Do go foraging with someone experienced If you’re new to foraging, head out with someone who knows what they’re picking or sign up for a tutored day out. Their experience can help you avoid dangerous mistakes and teach you how to forage responsibly. Do seek permission from landowners Always ensure you have the landowner’s permission before foraging, especially in parks or areas that are not public land. Don’t assume all public spaces are fair game. Respect private property and local regulations. Do only pick what you need Take a modest amount and leave plenty behind for nature and other foragers. Nature depends on these plants more than we do, so leave the plants to regenerate. Do use the right equipment Take a sturdy pair of scissors and a reusable bag for collecting. For certain plants, such as nettles or brambles, wear gardening gloves to protect yourself from stings and scratches. Do leave roots intact Snip leaves and stems but never uproot. Al…

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10 UK hotels with beautiful gardens to book this spring
type: item
date: 2026-03-12T11:40:37.000Z
creator: Lucy Roxburgh
subject: Travel
subject: UK
subject: Hotel guides
description: These hotels help you make the most of the outdoors, with expansive kitchen gardens, wildflower meadows or acres of woodland
encoded: As the countryside bursts into bloom, hotels across the UK are perfectly placed to make the most of it, whether they are grand estates set in rolling hills or boutique retreats with the prettiest of kitchen gardens to explore. For more UK hotel inspiration, check out our picks of the best country house hotels and the best spa hotels in the UK. 10 UK hotels with beautiful gardens to book this spring The Bath Priory, Bath In a leafy part of Bath sits this impressive Georgian house, offering old-fashioned hospitality with wide appeal. Behind the ivy-clad building is a vast, not-so-secret garden, featuring a spectacular Lebanon cedar tree, croquet lawn, sunken pool and kitchen garden growing herbs, edible flowers, fruit and veg destined for the dining room. Spring is when the wisteria-covered terrace shines, the perfect spot for taking afternoon tea. You can also order a picnic hamper to enjoy in the gardens, with a bottle of English sparkling wine. You'll have views of the garden at dinner too. Chef Jauca Catalin’s imaginative menu celebrates seasonal, local produce with some surprising Asian touches: a crab starter is teamed with lime confit, mooli and chilli peanut caramel; wild turbot is a complex dish of scallop mousse, caviar and miso and kombu tea. At breakfast there is a traditional approach, with eggs royale, benedict and florentine, alongside the full English and a fluffy omelette Arnold Bennett. Bedrooms are designed for comfort and relaxation, with period furniture, florals and tartan adding warmth to neutral décor. Rooms start at £275 per night including breakfast, based on two sharing. Check availability at booking.com or expedia.co.uk The Samling, Lake District The Samling is a luxurious country house hotel (think al fresco hot tubs, fine dining and ornamental water gardens) set in nearly 70 acres of woodland, gardens and fields, perfect for exploring at this time of year. It sits right on the banks of Lake Windermere. Most of the rooms overlook the lake …

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Vagus nervous? The expert lowdown on vagus nerve stimulation and how to make it work for you
type: item
date: 2026-03-12T11:40:03.000Z
creator: Vicky Chandler
subject: Wellbeing
subject: Premium wellbeing
description: Find out more about this trending topic and why it does really matter
encoded: For more information about stress and to find out whether forest bathing could help; how your gut health is involved; and the foods that might help, turn to our wellbeing section. Chances are you’ve come across the vagus nerve recently. Maybe in breathwork class, a therapy session, or while doomscrolling at night wondering why you can’t switch off. It's become one of those terms that gets dropped into wellness conversation with increasing confidence: activate your vagus nerve, reset your nervous system, improve your vagal tone. But for all the buzz, most of us are a bit hazy on what it actually is, let alone whether stimulating it makes any real difference. Here's the thing: unlike a lot of wellness trends, the vagus nerve is genuinely fascinating and the science behind it is real. It's just that not everything sold in its name is. What is the vagus nerve? The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, running from the brainstem all the way down through the neck, chest and abdomen, weaving connections between your brain, lungs and gut. “It helps regulate heart rate, digestion and stress response,” says Shelly Dar, BACP-registered psychotherapist. “When we talk about activating it, we’re really talking about improving vagal tone, the body’s ability to return to calm after stress. In practice, this is less about hacks and more about teaching the body signals of safety.” Think of your vagal tone as the fitness level of your vagal pathways. It’s something that can be measured indirectly through something called heart rate variability (HRV), the slight variation in time between your heartbeats. Higher HRV is generally associated with better stress resilience, emotional regulation and cardiovascular health. Lower HRV has been linked with anxiety, burnout and poor recovery. Here’s where it gets interesting for women specifically. Oestrogen supports vagal tone and HRV, which means hormonal shifts across perimenopause and menopause can have a direct physiological …

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Best new restaurants in London to visit in 2026
type: item
date: 2026-03-12T09:00:24.000Z
creator: Alex Crossley
subject: London
subject: Restaurants
subject: London area guides
description: The best new restaurant openings in London, expertly reviewed by the olive team. Keep up to date with the hottest new openings and find out which are not to be missed, plus which dishes to order in each restaurant
encoded: Looking for new restaurants in London? We've visited the hot new openings in the capital to experience the restaurant for ourselves to bring you our regularly updated best London restaurants list. Read on for all the best new openings (including some from the end of last year) and we'll be continually adding new restaurant openings for 2026 as they launch, after we've expertly reviewed each one. For more restaurant guides check out our best restaurants in Soho, Covent Garden, Shoreditch and the best restaurants with rooms in the UK. If you want to pull out all the stops, find out the UK's best showstopping restaurants to impress or try the best chef's table experiences in the UK. Best new London restaurant openings 2026 Cometa, Fitzrovia For bold Mexican seafood made for sharing Cometa, the latest from the Carousel collective, brings contemporary Mexican seafood to Charlotte Street with confident ease. It sits comfortably in the old bones of the building yet feels fresh, as though it has already found its rhythm. Terrazzo floors and warm details give the room an inviting glow. Banquettes suit groups, window tables are perfect for two. Come ready to share and order widely. The menu runs from crudos to larger plates, with seafood at its heart. I began with the house margarita and, usually wary of mezcal, was won over. Bright and citrus-led, with a touch of tamarind sweetness and a faint sherbet lift, it was dangerously easy to drink. Prawn ceviche was delicate and sweet, its smoky heat softened by lemon cream and crisp tostadas that appeared generously. Crab chilpachole rice with eel cream was deeply savoury, smoke and warmth in every spoonful. Fried chicken was the standout: shatteringly crisp, juicy within, lifted by agave and fresh mint. There are only 15 portions a day. Ex-dairy sirloin followed, boldly charred and topped with bone marrow fried tortilla and chilli. A caesar salad brought anchovy and parmesan comfort. Dulce de leche crème caramel closed the evening…

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Best restaurants in Hackney: where locals eat and drink
type: item
date: 2026-03-11T12:19:34.000Z
subject: London
subject: Restaurants
subject: London area guides
description: Check out our favourite restaurants, cafes, bars and foodie spots in Hackney – Sicilian red prawns, fragrant curries dipped into buttery homemade roti, and one of the best-value tasting menus in town
encoded: Looking for Hackney restaurants? Here are the olive team's favourite restaurants in London's North Eastern borough, from Hackney Road to Stoke Newington, Homerton and London Fields... Best places to eat and drink in Hackney Albers, De Beauvoir – for small plate classics with a twist Albers is a small corner room in De Beauvoir, all big windows and candlelight, with bikes sliding past outside and a faint Edward Hopper Nighthawks feeling to the scene. Inside, white walls and warm wood keep things simple, the tables close, the mood sociable. It’s the sort of place that wants to be your local even if you’ve crossed town for it. The cooking sits in that appealing middle ground between pub comfort and bistro intent: classics remembered, then gently tilted. I drank a sage cordial with soda, sweet and syrupy in the best way, and lifted by a soft herbal edge. The sardine ragu croquette was the first real wink from the kitchen: crisp outside, creamy within, deep with sardine warmth and finished with a generous parmesan dusting. Grey mullet crudo with cranberry and citrus was all balance, sharpness layered on sharpness, the fish cool and slightly creamy, the fruit giving tart little bursts. Sausage with sauerkraut and quince came rich and peppery, handmade and satisfying, the kraut leaning sweet-sour, quince adding a gentle perfume. The smoked eel and bacon caesar salad was the dish I kept going back to: smoke from eel and bacon folding into the salty anchovy depth of the dressing, crisp leaves: a bold take on something you think you know. Celeriac with confit egg was decadent and nutty. Bluefin tuna with peppercorn sauce was pleasant enough, thick buttery slices and a clean sear, though the sauce felt a touch thin and the temperature slightly off. Dessert was a maple and hazelnut ice cream sandwich: the biscuit was a little firm but the maple ice cream was silky smooth and toasty. Service is friendly, still smoothing its edges, and there’s no coffee or hot drinks to stretch t…

My unexpected journey through Norway's fjords – saunas, seafood and striking views
type: item
date: 2026-03-11T10:07:57.000Z
creator: Heather Steele
subject: Europe
subject: Travel
description: Immerse yourself in nature and dive into the pristine, rugged beauty of Norway's western fjords
encoded: For more inspiring travel stories, check out a scenic journey through Cape Cod by bike, or the highlands of Peru by luxury sleeper train. Juggling a black coffee in one hand and a cinnamon bun in the other, I look out across the ripples our boat is creating as it moves through the reflective waters of Hjørundfjord, and realise why Norwegians head to the fjords for restoration. The quiet in this particular valley is paired with a soaring, rugged beauty. Around its edges it’s not unusual to see people diving into the water or climbing up its peaks. These wellness rituals – which encompass saunas too, of course – are themselves a wonderful match for a local food philosophy that brings people together over flatbreads, rich stews and bowls of cloudberries and lingonberries foraged on mountain hikes. For a true taste of Norway – and to get up close with the country’s enviable bounty of seafood – the striking western fjords are the place to explore. Whether you’re arriving via Oslo or from the UK (flights are around five hours via Amsterdam), the views heading into the colourful, art nouveau port town of Ålesund will awe you. It’s from the sky that you’ll get the truest sense of the place, gazing down at countless islands and islets in the Norwegian Sea below. It’s the ideal springboard for a five- to seven-day trip, hopping from place to place, immersing yourself in the sublime landscapes and raw beauty of this extraordinary part of the world. For a first meal that sets you up for a fjordic escape, book a table at Sjøbua. Taking over a handful of former fishing warehouses on the edge of the harbour, the restaurant leans into its history, serving some of the finest seafood on the west coast. One of the local catches is clipfish and you’ll find it here in its traditional form: salted and served as a croquette. The kitchen also crisps up its skin as an accompaniment to goat’s cheese and grayling roe. Order the prawns from nearby Midsund too. Naturally sweet and complex thank…

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Georgie Mullen’s elegant vegetarian spring menu
type: item
date: 2026-03-10T14:54:40.000Z
creator: Georgie Mullen
subject: Chef recipes
subject: Entertain
subject: Recipes
subject: Spring
description: Celebrate the arrival of spring with author and creator Georgie Mullen's elegant vegetarian spring menu
encoded: As the days grow longer and the weather warms, spring offers a bounty of fresh ingredients perfect for celebrating the season’s renewal. Food writer Georgie Mullen’s spring menu is an elevated tribute to these early harvests, weaving together bright flavours and inventive pairings that capture the essence of spring. For more recipe ideas, check out our March guide on the best seasonal ingredients or explore our other meal plans, including Nisha Parmar’s vibrant sharing menu. Starter Purple sprouting broccoli tempura with wild garlic aïoli Purple sprouting broccoli always feels like a small seasonal celebration, the first signs of green after months of root veg and stews. This recipe works beautifully as a starter or as a snack with a cocktail. It's a little plate of green magic. Drinks Rhubarb and elderflower spritz Forced rhubarb is in season between January and March, and is known for its slender stalks and vibrant pink colour. After March, you'll find outdoor-grown rhubarb, which is available until summer – slightly less vibrant and a little less sweet. For its lively pink colour, I like using forced rhubarb in this cocktail but if you can only find outdoor-grown rhubarb, a small splash of red food colouring in the syrup will help boost the colour. Don't throw the rhubarb purée left in the sieve away – I eat it with yogurt and granola in the morning. Main New potato, raclette and spring onion galette I love making pastry – rubbing the flour and butter between my fingertips might be the most therapeutic job in the kitchen. If you are new to pastry, a galette is a good place to start – they are supposed to look rustic. Dessert White chocolate mousse with poached rhubarb White chocolate and rhubarb are a gorgeous match. The mousse is silky and sweet, balanced by the tart poached rhubarb. You can prepare both the mousse and the poached rhubarb up to three days in advance, making this a perfect pud for hosting.

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Spring show-off dishes for the long weekend
type: item
creator: Janine Ratcliffe
subject: Collection
subject: Guides
subject: Recipes
subject: Lamb
subject: one-pot
subject: Roast chicken
subject: Trifle
description: Impress your guests with these four spring dishes, from an easy one-pot to a boozy lemon dessert
encoded: Long weekends are made for lingering lunches, laidback dinners and dishes worth gathering around. These spring showstoppers brings bold flavours to the table while keeping things low-effort and shareable – think an easy one-pot, punchy roast and build-your-own raclette spread. And, because no celebration is complete without something sweet, there’s a boozy lemon dessert to round things off in style. Discover more recipes for entertaining this season, consider a few unexpected ideas for hosting guests, or replicate private chef Nisha Parmar's vibrant sharing menu for a simple yet impressive three-course dinner at home. Slow-cooked spiced lamb with orzo This effortless one-pot is cooked with fragrant spices of cinnamon and allspice, which don't overpower, but provide gentle warmth. Fresh herbs, feta and lemon lift the finished dish. Bring the platter to the table for maximum wow-factor. Cowboy butter-roasted chicken A punchy butter instantly boosts the flavour of roast chicken. Spatchcocking the bird means it roasts evenly and fast – and, it's much easier to carve for guests. Serve with skinny fries and a vinegary salad to cut through the richness, and don't forget to spoon over all the buttery roasting juices. Raclette party This is a great way to serve a mix-and-match spread for friends. Traditionally, you'd serve raclette simply with boiled potatoes, charcuterie and pickles, but we've added a few extra flourishes to make your guests feel you've worked extra hard! You can buy various raclette sets, but you can also use small heatproof frying pans or dishes. Boozy lemon meringue trifle This zingy spring trifle is made with mostly ready-made ingredients, then finished with marshmallowy Italian meringue. Using hot sugar syrup means the meringue is 'cooked' and becomes much more stable. We think it's worth the extra effort, but if you want a simpler finish, you could pile up some shop-bought meringues and whipped cream instead.

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Why I love Western Cape, South Africa's diverse coastal province
type: item
date: 2026-03-10T10:08:59.000Z
creator: Ryan Cole
subject: Africa
subject: Travel
subject: 10 things
description: Ryan Cole, head chef of fine dining restaurant Salsify in Cape Town, shares what puts South African cuisine on the map
encoded: Learn all about what makes the cuisine of this coastal region so special from local chef Ryan Cole. From social barbecues to freshly caught seafood and historic wine regions, there is plenty for foodies to enjoy. Make sure you include a couple of days in the city exploring Cape Town's best restaurants. Want to learn more about regional cuisine? Check out our guides to the cuisines of Kolkta in India, Istria in Croatia, the Nashville in America or Cork in Ireland. Western Cape cuisine: 10 things we love Constantia Wine Route Nestled in the slopes of Table Mountain, the Constantia Wine Route is the oldest wine region in South Africa. Through a combination of varied elevation, a cool climate and granite rich soils, this part of the world is famous for its world-class sauvignon blanc and shiraz. Take part in tastings and tours of the vineyards to take advantage of what this fantastic region has to offer. Vin de Constance It is said that many famous historical figures enjoyed this sweet dessert wine, made only in the Constantia region. Napoleon is said to have enjoyed this beverage while in exile on Saint Helena, and it appears in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility as a cure for a broken heart. This unique wine is definitely one to enjoy when you visit. Local catch As Cape Town is coastal city it is of no surprise that fish features heavily in local restaurant dishes. At my restaurants, Salsify and COY, fish is prominent on the menu and is caught by me or my brother Donovan, ensuring freshness and ethical sourcing. Tuna fishing is a significant industry in Hout Bay, with yellowfin, longfin, bigeye and skipjack varieties in the area. In the calmer bays near Simon’s Town and Kalk Bay you’ll find squid and reef fish. Biltong Originating in South Africa, biltong has in recent years been growing in popularity around the world. Commonly made with beef or game like springbok, this easy way of air drying and curing meat dates back centuries, and to the indigenous South African …

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Where to visit in April: from spring gardens in the UK to US food festivals
type: item
date: 2026-03-09T13:03:40.000Z
creator: Lucy Roxburgh
subject: Travel
subject: Great Getaways
description: From Cornish seafood festivals to floating through the fjords of Norway, here's our pick of where to travel this month
encoded: Need some ideas on where to go on holiday in April? Check out our pick of destinations for a food lover’s break this spring, including a city break in Portugal, tulips in the Netherlands and a Cornish seafood festival. For more travel inspiration, check out our picks of the best spring holidays or the best European city breaks. The UK at its best: Cornwall For a UK escape that combines coastal scenery with serious food credentials, few places rival Cornwall in spring. The tiny harbour village of Porthleven comes alive during the Porthleven Food Festival (24–26 April). More than 150 local producers and chefs (including Josh Eggleton, Jude Kereama and Tom Brown) descend on the harbour for demos, workshops and street-food stalls, with live music in the evenings. Drive half an hour across the county to base yourself in St Ives. Start the day at Brine for inventive brunch dishes overlooking the harbour – we love the Jaffle toastie, stuffed with fresh crab, Singapore chilli sauce and cheese. For relaxed small plates and cocktails with sunset views, try Silco Bar & Kitchen, while Porthmeor Beach Café pairs bold, spice-forward cooking with sweeping sea views. If you have time for a short coastal drive, book a table at the celebrated The Gurnard’s Head, a characterful pub known for beautifully cooked local fish and seasonal Cornish produce. Check out our full guide to the best restaurants in St Ives for more. The UK bolthole: The Bath Priory, Bath In a leafy part of Bath sits this impressive Georgian house, offering old-fashioned hospitality with wide appeal. Behind the ivy-clad building is a vast, not-so-secret garden that is the perfect spot for relaxing in April, featuring a spectacular Lebanon cedar tree, croquet lawn, sunken pond and kitchen garden growing herbs, edible flowers, fruit and veg destined for the dining room. Spring is when the wisteria-covered terrace shines, the perfect spot for taking afternoon tea. You can also order a picnic hamper to enjoy in the gard…

Wind down into the perfect slow Sunday with iHerb’s best wellness essentials
type: item
date: 2026-03-06T14:20:06.000Z
creator: Laura Forsyth
subject: Advertisement features
description: Upgrade your Sunday wind-down with carefully selected wellness essentials from iHerb.
encoded: Whether it’s a soothing bath, a warm cup of herbal tea, or gentle supplements, these small rituals can help make your slow Sunday feel more indulgent and restorative. You might also have asked yourself: “Is there a vitamin that calms you?” or “what supplements can ease anxiety?”. While no vitamin replaces medical care for anxiety, ingredients like magnesium, L-theanine and ashwagandha have been studied for their role in supporting normal psychological function, promoting everyday calm, and the body’s natural response to stress when included as part of a balanced lifestyle. With this in mind, here’s a curated line-up of slow Sunday essentials from iHerb to help you create your most relaxing weekend yet. Discover wellness favourites from iHerb and enjoy 20% off Supporting your wellbeing often comes down to small, consistent habits. From the supplements you take each day to the rituals that help you relax and recharge, choosing the right products can help make your routine feel easier. At iHerb, you’ll find a wide range of wellness highlights designed to support everyday health. Whether it's calming supplements or skincare treats, there are plenty of options to help you build a routine that works for you. Spend £60 or more and enjoy 20% off your order using the code OLIVEUK. Browse iHerb’s wellness selection and save on your order today. Which vitamins are good for relaxing? Several nutrients are commonly associated with supporting relaxation and emotional balance: Magnesium contributes to normal psychological function and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. L-theanine is often used in food supplements designed to promote relaxation without drowsiness. Ashwagandha is traditionally used in herbal practice, and research suggests it may help the body respond to everyday stress. Probiotics are increasingly studied for their connection to the gut-brain axis and mood. While research is ongoing, these supplements may support a calm routine when combined with good sleep, b…

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Maunika Gowardhan's joyous Keralan dishes
type: item
date: 2026-03-05T17:32:54.000Z
creator: Maunika Gowardhan
subject: Asia
subject: Chef recipes
subject: Collection
subject: Recipes
subject: Travel
description: Discover Maunika Gowardhan's mouthwatering recipes, inspired by her travels in Kerala
encoded: One of the most stunning regions within southern India is undoubtedly the state of Kerala. Most people I speak to who have visited always rave about the scenic views, food, culture and the local people. My first trip and introduction to the Malayali community was at the age of 12 when I made a trip to travel with family and friends across the city. Ever since, I have been so many times to explore the city, cuisine and also, by chance, for a family wedding. Seeing the varied communities within one region including Christians, Muslims and Hindus, and the differences in cooking styles, fascinates me. For instance, the Malayali Hindus have a unique cooking style with recipes and traditions which include religious practices that differ to the Christian and Muslim communities in Kerala. The prevalence of cooking fish, meat or poultry within the coastal region have come from the culinary influences of the Christian and Muslim families. A region renowned for its use of black pepper in curries and stir-fried dishes much before chillies made an entry into India. For me, delving into Syrian Christian cooking holds joyous memories as a young girl. I always turned to Mariam, a lovely lady who left Kerala to join our family home and brought along with her an abundance of local knowledge and recipes that I have adored. This in its truest form is where my love for (and introduction to) Kerala and its people began. She used to cook the most delicious avial (potato curry) and plenty of fish, as well as meat curries, too. She would share stories of her hometown and how they grew local veg, went fishing and ground spices. I could listen for ages and that is one of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy visiting Kerala even today. Maunika Gowardhan's Keralan dishes Kerala fish moilee This is best made with fish steaks, which are held together with the help of a centre bone and ensure the fish stays intact (ask the fishmonger to do this). If you can’t get steaks, chunky fillets will work. Nadan …

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West Hampstead restaurants: a local shares her favourite spots
type: item
date: 2026-03-05T16:43:21.000Z
creator: Bettina Campolucci Bordi
subject: Guides
subject: London
subject: Restaurants
subject: London area guides
description: Discover where to eat and drink in West Hampstead, from a local Parisian restaurant to a retro 1970s cocktail bar
encoded: Looking for the best places to eat in West Hampstead and the surrounding area? Local resident and expert Bettina Campolucci Bordi shared her must-visit recommendations, from a neighbourhood deli stocking St John baked goods to a weekly farmer's market. For more London food recommendations, check out our reviews of the best restaurants in Notting Hill, best restaurants in Marylebone and best restaurants in Paddington. West Hampstead is one of those neighbourhoods that just works – it’s got great food, brilliant independent shops, proper community vibes and you’re close enough to Hampstead Heath to escape London without actually leaving it. People chat, shopkeepers remember you and everything you need is within walking distance, which, for me, is the dream. Food is always how I connect to a place, and West Hampstead delivers. We’re lucky to be surrounded by small, independently run spots where the owners genuinely care about what they’re doing and, over time, many of them have become part of our everyday routine. What I love most about West Hampstead is how well connected it is with the tube, London Overground and Thameslink trains but also how it feels – it’s the people, independents, easy access to green space. It feels like this is a neighbourhood built around community which, when you live in a big city like London, can be hard to come by. Tannin & Oak A true local gem. This is our go-to wine bar and the kind of place that you end up staying longer at than planned. The owners and sommeliers really know their stuff but there’s zero intimidation – just great wine and conversation, and a very friendly crowd. It’s perfect after a long day and also brilliant if you’re on your own because everyone is so welcoming. It also does a generous champagne pour when you feel like celebrating! tanninandoak.com French Society A relatively new opening that we were very excited about, and it hasn’t disappointed. French-inspired dishes that are comforting, generous and delicious with…

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20 London hotel bars to visit
type: item
date: 2026-03-05T15:13:20.000Z
creator: Hannah Guinness
subject: Drink
subject: Guides
description: Discover our favourite London hotel bars, from contemporary drinking dens to venues that exude old-school glamour
encoded: Looking for the best London hotel bars? I've been olive's drinks writer for the past eight years, and trust me when I say that London has some of the best hotel bars in the world. With cutting-edge mixology, iconic cocktails and opulent environments, many have become destinations in their own right. And with that in mind, I've curated a list of the best ones to visit right now, from sleek Mayfair outfits to funky Shoreditch drinking dens. You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to seeking out a classy drink or two. Don't forget to check this guide for updates, as I'll be refreshing it with new openings and must-visit favourites. Now, find out the best dining experiences in London, best restaurants in London with a view and the best food and drink festivals to visit. We also have our round-up of the best London pubs for food lovers. If you like your cocktail served with stellar sound systems, discover our favourite listening bars in London. The best London hotel bars to visit Gambit Bar at the Newman Hotel, Fitzrovia Located underneath The Newman hotel, down the staircase and through a grand mirrored hallway, is suave subterranean venue Gambit. The plush interior is inspired by the abstract geometric forms of Percy Wyndham Lewis's vorticist movement – evident in an elegantly coffered ceiling and swirling burr veneer front running the length of the copper-topped bar. Cosy green booths and high-top seats line the room, creating a warm, relaxed feel. Head of food and drink Eder Neto has created a refined menu. Signature cocktails showcase high-quality ingredients with an understated touch – such as the earthy Angels and Demons, made with butter-infused tequila, Campari and blood orange; and the tropical, subtly creamy Excitement and Fate, with white rum, pineapple and shiso. Classic drinks are of course available too and our sazerac was boozy and carefully made, as it should be. Bar snacks include superb castelvetrano olives, light goat's cheese gougères and nutty väs…

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Why every oenophile should discover Australia’s remote wine paradise
type: item
date: 2026-03-05T12:56:02.000Z
creator: Kate Hawkings
subject: Guides
subject: Wine
description: Often described as a paradise by winemakers, our expert shares what makes this boutique wine region so special
encoded: Margaret River is one of the most remote wine regions in the world, a strip around 60 miles long and 20 miles wide on the south-west tip of Australia, surrounded on three sides by the Indian Ocean. It’s also one of the newest, established less than 60 years ago when it was noticed how similar its climate and soils were to the best sites in Bordeaux. Margaret River's main grape varieties Margaret River – or Margs as the locals call it – has established itself among the most respected wine regions in the world. As in Bordeaux, cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc and sémillon thrive brilliantly, the latter two often blended to make wonderful, opulent whites that get better with a bit of bottle age, while chardonnay is perhaps its shining star, making dazzling wines that really sing of the region’s unique terroir. The geology here predates that of almost every other winemaking region by around 500 million years. Its well-drained gravel soils retain heat to help with the ripening of the grapes, while the clay beneath holds moisture during the dry summers. But its proximity to the ocean and its cooling sea breezes is the real key to the characteristic freshness, minerality and savoury salinity of the wines that distinguishes them from those from other, hotter parts of Australia. Margaret River's wine making While Australia’s wine industry is dominated by a few huge companies, Margaret River is very much a boutique region, accounting for only 2 per cent of Australia’s total production. Here, the focus is on small, often family-owned producers making high-quality wines, many of them organic or biodynamic, which aren’t cheap enough to compete with supermarkets’ budget bottles but generally offer great value when you’re prioritising quality over quantity. Margs has a thriving community of dynamic, innovative growers and winemakers who embody the pioneering spirit of the region, and their wines will rarely let you down. Want to stay over? Cape Lodge Margaret River is a long sc…

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Ljubljana's best restaurants: where to eat and drink in Slovenia's capital
type: item
date: 2026-03-05T11:17:57.000Z
creator: Alex Crossley
subject: Europe
subject: Travel
subject: Local city guides
description: Keep things local in the Slovenian capital with wild asparagus polenta fritters, nutty gelato and orange wines
encoded: Looking for the best restaurants in Ljubljana? Want to explore the best riverside bars and bistros in the Slovenian capital? Check out our guide below, then add on a few days exploring the mountain region of the Julian Alps. Chocolate box Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, a river romantically spanned by pretty bridges and pedestrian- and bike-friendly policies make Slovenia’s capital city one of Europe’s most civilised. It’s also one of the continent’s most foodie destinations, with a position between the Alps and the Adriatic that lends the local cuisine both an excellent range of produce and a real variety of culinary influences. Ljubljana's best restaurants, bars and cafés Open Kitchen Market – for a taste of Slovenia Every Friday, from March to October, Ljubljana’s Pogačar Square comes to life as the city’s Open Kitchen Market. There’s a festival atmosphere beneath the shadows of the green-domed Ljubljana Cathedral, and all manner of vendors, from farms to gourmet restaurants, sell dishes and drinks for visitors to graze on. Sample vibrant pumpkin seed oil and Broken Bones gin (distilled with linden flowers and rosehip from Slovenia’s Karst region), or tuck into dishes from the country’s top restaurants – Gostilna Mihovec, Vander and JB Restaurant. Finish your visit like a local by stopping off at Jezeršek’s corner stall for comforting kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes), topped with apple, mixed berries or chocolate sauce. odprtakuhna.si Aftr – for relaxed bistro dinners Pops of fun adorn this lively bistro, popular with Ljubljana’s in-the-know crowd. Striking pop art provides a backdrop to high-top tables and a disco ball hangs from the exposed industrial ceiling. A bar stands centre stage, behind which fresh, sparkling Medot Brut 48, dry Klinec Malvazija and complex Movia Veliko Rdeče blend are poured along with seasonal cocktails. The succinct sharing plates menu includes squidgy potato focaccia with whipped shallot butter, spiced pine nut studded lamb ta…

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Best cocktail bars in London
type: item
date: 2026-03-05T11:00:24.000Z
creator: Hannah Guinness
subject: Bar reviews
subject: Drink
subject: Guides
description: From slinky, speakeasy-style dens to cutting-edge mixology, London's cocktail bars are world-class. Here's a taste of what to expect
encoded: Looking for the best cocktail bars in London? As olive’s drinks writer, I've spent the past eight years scouring the capital’s bar scene to keep up with the latest trends, openings and hot spots. London’s bar scene is one of the best in the world (including four of the World’s 50 Best Bars; see the full list here), buzzing with cutting-edge mixology, top-tier bartender talent and, most importantly, really delicious cocktails. Here’s my pick of the best at the moment – from a Latin American-inspired basement bar in Notting Hill to a Dalston agaveria and award-winning cocktail lounge in Soho. There's plenty to keep your Friday nights and weekends busy; make sure you check back for more as I'll be updating this guide with the best new cocktail bar openings. For more like this, check out the World's 50 Best Bars, the best London hotel bars to visit, the best listening bars in London and the best London pubs for food lovers. Also check out our London food guides, including the best restaurants in Fitzrovia, best restaurants in Shoreditch, best restaurants in Marylebone and best restaurants in Notting Hill. Best London cocktail bars Homeboy, Islington Homeboy promises modern Irish hospitality and delivers it in spades. The acclaimed bar was established in 2018 by Dublin native Aaron Wall (Callooh Callay, London Cocktail Club), bringing NY dive bar vibes to Islington's Essex Road. Now something of a hub in the neighbourhood, it continues to serve excellent, refined cocktails in a warm, familiar space. Leaning solidly into whiskey, the drinks menu offers clever twists on classic flavours. We loved the sidecar-adjacent Wogan, which brings together Teeling Small Batch whiskey, apricot liqueur, lime and a hint of salt; and would choose the Taoiseach – with Redbreast 12 whiskey, triple sec, red vermouth and pomegranate – over a manhattan on most occasions. Special mention goes to the Luca, a complex, martini-style marvel featuring reposado tequila, white vermouth, tomato water …

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